Peter Armitage owns ­stunning Ardoch House on the shore of Loch Lomond, which he lets out during the year to corporate clients.

But the profit he generates allows him to offer the 18-­bedroom complex almost free of charge to children-focused charities looking for space to run activities and courses or host seminars.

Peter said: “In 2000 I decided I wanted to retire after a long career in portfolio ­management.

“I was lucky. I chose to go just before the steep share price decline and this fortuitous ­timing resulted in an ­accumulation of more wealth than my family needed.

“I find the teachings of Buddha and Christ more attractive than conspicuous consumption and so I resolved to give some of it back.”

Peter invested almost £7.5million in the venue, which includes a ­restaurant and conference and event space.

It sits in 133 acres with breathtaking views north over the loch to the Highlands. To date, scores of young ­people have used the centre to try out water sports and hillwalking or take part in discussion groups.

Charity Columba 1400 are regular clients, bringing ­youngsters from different backgrounds together to challenge themselves but the centre has also played host to young musicians and deprived youngsters from Switzerland.

Peter added: “The primary measure of our success will be the return on human rather than financial capital – on how Ardoch is positively impacting the lives of young people.”

He estimates that £40,000 should be enough for six ­charities to book the house for around a week.

To qualify, applicants must be registered charities with a focus on children or young people. Visit www.ardoch-scotland.com for details.